Does Omega-3 Vitamins Really Help?

Updated on
November 24, 2009

J.N.
asks from
Mount Vernon, WA
on October 28, 2009

26
answers

Hello all,
In hopes to help my son's concentration a little better at school, it's been suggested he take an Omega-3 vitamin. Has anyone else tried this? He takes "regular" vitamins, but none specifally for Omega-3. Is there a favorite? Tell me more about it... Thanks!!

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E.T.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

I personally would not give my child Omega-3 vitamins because there are a lot of foods that you can get Omega-3 in, such as flax seeds, which you can grind up in a coffee grinder and put it in their morning cereal, or smoothie. Also, salmon (and many fish, get wild caught) have omega-3s in it. I would steer towards looking up other foods that would have it in it and focus on the whole food instead of the vitamin, it is always better (plus cheaper).

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P.K.

answers from
Spokane
on
October 29, 2009

In my research I have found that Krill fish oil capsules are the the best to use and they can help for children too. P. K

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K.K.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

My son has the same problem. I have heard a lot of good about the Omega-3, but can't help but think that if it's that simple... why are so many kids heavily medicated??? I am trying some other routes right now simply because my son looked at the pill and said no way! He will take it if need be, but for right now, I found something else that seems to be helping. Wrestling. I put him in a wrestling class two nights a week... he not only loves it, but he has had a much easier time staying focused both at school and at home. Maybe it's coincidence, I don't know. Even if it is, it's worth it to see the smile on his face while he's doing it!

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N.I.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

Yes Omega 3 helps. You have to be really careful with the vitamins that women and children take. The FDA did a study on women's and children's vitamins and found out that out of the 320 vitamins they tested there were almost 100% of the vitamins that tested for lead. Lead is very bad and cost lots of money to get rid of in the body and it does not help cognitive functioning at all.

I use Shaklee, who I think is the only company that tests for lead and other toxic ingredients before, during and after manufacturing - here is some information that might be helpful.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Children’s Health
Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as polyunsaturated
fatty acids, are essential to human health but
cannot be made by the body. For this reason, they
must be obtained from the foods we eat. Good
sources of omega-3s include fatty fish and
certain plant foods, including olive oil, flaxseed,
and walnuts.
There are three major types of omega-3 fatty
acids consumed in foods and used by the body:
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The body
converts ALA to EPA and DHA, which are the two
omega-3 fatty acids used most readily by humans.
However, because this conversion is fairly
inefficient (less than 5%), dietary consumption of
both DHA and EPA is highly recommended—
especially in young children in order for them to
meet their significant need for these important
omega-3 fatty acids. Research continues to
validate the important role these omega-3 fatty
acids play in normal growth as well as in the early
development of a child’s brain and eyes.
Early Brain and Visual Development
DHA and EPA are best known for their beneficial role in
protecting adults’ cardiovascular health and in lessening
inflammatory conditions. However, emerging science
suggests that DHA in particular plays an important role
in early brain and visual development in growing infants
and children. In fact, DHA is the most abundant omega-3
long-chain fatty acid in the brain and, during the last trimester of pregnancy and continuing throughout the first few years of life, it is rapidly incorporated into nervous tissue of the retina and brain.1 Supplementation of infant formula with DHA has been shown to aid growth,development, and vision in premature infants, and prenatal and infant deficiencies of DHA have been shown to lead to brain abnormalities.1 Cognitive and Behavioral Function
Beyond early development and throughout life, DHA is
believed to continue to influence brain function by
playing an important role in brain-cell membrane structure,
brain-cell receptor activity, and the production of
neurotransmitters and other brain chemicals.2 This has
lead to considerable interest in the potential role DHA may
have on cognitive development and behavioral function during childhood. A number of research studies have examined the relationship between the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body and a variety of childhood disorders, including autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most
common childhood disorders and it affects 5%–10% of
school-age children, or 4.4 million youths ages 4–17. Symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention,difficulty controlling behavior, and a general inability to sit still or tendency to be hyperactive. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimate that 2.5 million of these children receive some type of medication to treat this disorder and, to make matters worse, this condition can continue throughout life, with as many as 70% of children diagnosed with ADHD suffering from the disorder into adolescence and adulthood.3 Studies suggest that children with ADHD may have low levels of certain essential fatty acids (including DHA) in their bodies.
In a clinical study of nearly 100 boys, those with lower
levels of omega-3 fatty acids demonstrated more learning and behavioral problems—such as temper tantrums and sleep
disturbances—than boys with normal omega-3 fatty acid
levels.4 In animal studies, low levels of omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower the concentration of certain brain chemicals—such as dopamine and serotonin—related to attention and motivation.5 Randomized clinical trials assessing the effects of omega-3 supplementation on symptoms of ADHD have been published. Some studies indicate supplementing a child’s diet with a combination of long-chain fatty acids including DHA and EPA may be beneficial for reducing symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity when compared with a placebo6,7, while other studies have found no benefit.8 17 Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Children’s Health Shaklee Health Sciences Because of the diversity of findings, more research is needed and, as of today, firm conclusions are difficult to draw. However, researchers have proposed that future studies be designed to: 1) better understand the mechanism of action of omega-3 fatty acids in ADHD, 2) identify which children
with ADHD might benefit from omega-3 supplementation,
3) determine which fatty acids—and how much—to supplement
with, and 4) pinpoint the optimal time for intervention
(e.g. prenatal, infancy, or at time of diagnosis).9 However, until then, consumption of foods and supplements high in omega-3 fatty acids is a reasonable approach for someone with ADHD.
Autism Autism is one of a group of disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Autism usually is diagnosed by age 3 and lasts throughout a person’s life. Children with autism or other ASDs can suffer a wide array of developmental disabilities that can cause substantial impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as unusual behaviors and interests. Many children with ASDs also have unusual ways of learning, paying attention, and reacting to different sensations, and there is significant variability in severity— some children are high functioning while others can be quite severely affected. Recent data from the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network indicate that
about 1 in 150 8-year-olds living in the United States has an ASD. Scientists think there may be many causes that can
lead to the development of an ASD—and both genes and the
environment appear to play a role.10 There is some evidence that alterations in fatty acid metabolism may play a role in the pathophysiology of autism.
In one study, researchers compared the levels of fatty acids in the blood of a group of autistic children with those in a group of mentally challenged control subjects. Results indicated a 23% reduction in levels of DHA in the children with autism, resulting in significantly lower levels of total omega-3 fatty acids—without a reduction in total omega-6 fatty acids.11 The reasons for the lower concentrations of DHA are not well understood, but several hypotheses have been proposed. It may be that children with autism have insufficient dietary intakes of DHA, may have less ability to convert ALA to DHA, and/or have an enhanced breakdown of DHA in cell membranes.11
Dietary Intake of Omega-3s—Are Children Getting Enough?
The growing evidence in support of a positive relationship
between omega-3 fatty acids and many health outcomes in
children (and adults as well, for that matter!) have fueled the realization that relatively recent changes in the diet of Americans has dramatically changed the type of fat consumed, resulting in a significant shift in the ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids, thereby potentially changing the fatty acid composition of the brain. Omega-6 fatty acids such as linoleic acid (LA) are abundant in our diet, with a major source coming from vegetable oils, which tend to be much higher in omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. In the days of hunters and gatherers, the dietary ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids was believed to be in the range of 1:1 to 2:1. However, over the past 50–100 years, intakes of omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA and EPA have declined while the intake of omega-6 fatty acids has increased, such that the ratio of omega-6s to omega-3s is now estimated in the range of 15:1 to 25:1.12 This ratio is important because
the omega-6 fatty acid LA and the omega-3 fatty acid ALA
compete for the same enzymes that convert ALA to DHA
and EPA. Therefore, it is believed that both excessive intakes of omega-6 fatty acids and lesser amounts of omega-3s may actually diminish DHA availability in the brain. In addition, the decreased overall intake of omega-3s means less DHA and EPA are available for incorporation into brain-cell membranes. Both the American Dietetics Association and Dietitans of Canada recommend an increase in dietary intakes of omega-3 fatty acids13, and recommended intakes for omega-3 fatty acids to support optimal neuronal functioning and overall health of children have been established by various internationally recognized organizations.14 Although specific dietary requirements for DHA and EPA in children have not been established, the National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Medicine has established a recommended intake for total omega-3 fatty acids as ALA (see Table 1, Page 18)15,
with DHA and EPA contributing 10% toward the recommended
intake. For example, the recommended intake of
total omega-3 fatty acids for children ages 4–8 is 900 mg a
day, of which 90 mg may come from DHA and EPA.
18 Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Children’s Health Shaklee Health Sciences
Table 1: Recommended Adequate
Intakes (AI) for Omega-3 Fatty Acids in
Infants and Children*
Life Stages Age (Mg/Day)
Infants 0–12 mos 500 mg
Children 1–3 yrs 700 mg
Children 4–8 yrs 900 mg
Children 9–13 yrs 1,200 mg
Note: 10% of the above amounts (AI values) may be in the
form of DHA and EPA.
*Source: Food and Nutrition Board, USA, 2005
Given these recommendations, the question remains as to
whether children are consuming adequate amounts of
omega-3s, especially DHA and EPA. Based on the most
current national nutrition survey findings, most infants and children are not. Data collected from the 1999–2000
National Health Examination Survey estimated that
intakes of DHA among children 11 years old and younger
to be only 20–40 mg a day16, and in a recent study
published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers quantified the omega-3 fatty acid intake in a group of Canadian children ages 4–8. The mean dietary intake of DHA in these children,according to this study, was only 54 mg per day.17
Because of the ever-growing and emerging body of literature
demonstrating the importance of omega-3 fatty acids in
proper growth and development, early brain and visual
development, and possibly in childhood conditions such as
ADHD and autism, this dietary gap should be readily filled
with an increased consumption of foods rich in DHA such
as fish and seafood. However, increased fish consumption
poses additional concerns. Nearly all fish and shellfish
contain traces of mercury—and some may contain other
environmental pollutants that may pose harm to an unborn
baby or to a young child’s developing nervous system.
In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advise women who
may become pregnant, pregnant women, nursing mothers,
and young children to avoid some types of fish and eat only
fish and shellfish that are lower in mercury.18 Concerns about the safety of fish consumption coupled with inadequate dietary intakes suggest that most children would benefit from taking a high-quality dietary supplement that uses a pharmaceutical-grade, highly purified fish oil to deliver omega-3 fatty acids, including plenty of DHA to support the proper development and function of the brain and eyes.
2004 EPA and FDA Advice For: Women Who Might Become Pregnant Women who are pregnant, nursing mothers, and
young children 1. Do not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish because they contain high levels of
mercury. 2. Eat up to 12 ounces (two average meals) a week
of a variety of fish and shellfish that are lower in
mercury.
a. Five of the most commonly eaten fish that are low in mercury include shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish.
b. Another commonly eaten fish, albacore (“white”) tuna, has more mercury than canned light tuna. So when choosing your two meals of fish and shellfish, you may eat up to 6 ounces (one average meal) of albacore tuna per week.
3. Check local advisories about the safety of fish
caught by family and friends in your local lakes,
rivers, and coastal areas. If no advice is available,
eat up to 6 ounces (one average meal) per week of fish you catch from local waters, but don’t consume any other fish during that week.
4. Follow these same recommendations when feeding fish and shellfish to your young child, but serve smaller portions.
19 Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Children’s Health Shaklee Health Sciences
Key References
1. McCann JC, Ames BN, Is docosahexaenoic acid, an n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, required for development of normal brain function?
An overview of evidence from cognitive and behavioral tests in humans and animals. Am J Clin Nutr 2005;82:281-95.
2. Eilander A. et al. Effects of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation
on visual and cognitive development throughout childhood: A review
of human studies. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids
2007;26:189-203.
3. Information obtained 3.11.09 from: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/.
4. Stevens LJ, Zentall SS, Abate ML, Kuczek T, Burgess JR. Omega-3 fatty
acids in boys with behavior, learning and health problems. Physiol Behav.
1996;59(4/5):915-920.
5. Vancassel S et al. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation reverses
stress-induced modifications on brain monoamine levels in mice. J Lipd Res.
2008;49(2):340-348.
6. Sinn N, Bryan J. Effect of supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids
and micronutrients on learning and behavior problems associated with child
ADHD. Dev Behav Pediatr 2007;28:82–91.
7. Stevens L, Zhang W, Peck L, Kuczek T, Grevstat N, Mahon A. EFA
supplementation in children with inattention, hyperactivity and other disruptive
behaviours. Lipids 2003;38:1007-1021.
8. Voigt RG, Llorente AM, Jensen CL, Fraley JK, Berretta MC, Heird WC.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of docosahexaenoic acid
supplementation in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Journal
of Pediatrics 2001;139:189-196.
9. Busch B. Polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation for ADHD? Fishy, facinating,
and far from clear. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2007;28:139-144.
10. Information obtained 3.11.09 from: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/overview.htm.
11. Vancassel S. et al. Plasma fatty acid levels in autistic children.
Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids 2001;85(1):1-7.
12. Simopoulos AP. Evolutionary aspects of diet, the omega-6/omega-3 ratio
and genetic variation: Nutritional implications for chronic diseases. Biomed
Pharmacother 2006;60(9):502-507.
13. American Dietetics Association. Position of the American Dietetics
Association and Dietitians of Canada: Fatty acids J Am Diet Assoc.
2007;107:1599-1611.
14. Information obtained on 3.13.09 from: www.issfal.org.uk/recommendations-of-others.html.
15. National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition
Board. Dietary reference intakes for energy, carbohydrate, fiber, fat, fatty acids,
cholesterol, protein and amino acids. 2002-2005.
16. Ervin RB, Write JD, Wang C. et al. Dietary intake of fats and fatty acids
for the United States population: 1999-2000. Advanced Data. Vital and Health
Statistics, Number 348, 2004.
17. Madden SM, Garrioch CF, Holub BJ. Diet quantification indicates low
intakes of (n-3) fatty acids in children 4 to 8 years old. J Nutr. 2009;139:528-
532.
18. http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/fish/advice/.

N.
Wellness Coach

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R.M.

answers from
Portland
on
October 28, 2009

Hello J.,

I was a Nanny many years ago, and because of the experiences I had with an ADD/ADHD child, I specialize in medication free treatments for ADD/ADHD today as a Parent Coach.

We started the child on medication for ADD/ADHD as the doctor ordered. Over the next year she stopped eatting, didn't grow and had horrible mood swings. Nothing helped. We researched alt. treatments for ADD/ADHD & found behavior modification, alternate diets & Omega 3.

That was 6 years ago. Today she is 13 been off medication for this whole time and you'd never know she had ADD. She is even in 3 AP classes in her middle school

Omege 3 just helps the brain work better!!!! Let me know if you have questions. But, yes, Omege 3 will help.

R. Magby

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L.R.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

They have been wounderful for my son, he's 7 now, I did
some research on them and went to the health food store
to purchase some. At the same time a children's nutritionist
was purchasing for her 3 boys. She explained to me all the
benefits and showed me the kind she recommend to her patients. The Nordic Omega 3-6-9, my son was much younger and she explained he could take this one would benefit him more. He was so active, I was afraid then that he would not
be able to concentrate in school. She explained to me to cut
the sugars and food and drinks that containdyes.._ex. Red 40, blue 7 etc.) I know know that has helped in his sucess
in school today

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I.G.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 28, 2009

In my opinion, unless you are adressing a confirmed defiency, nutritional supplements are humbug.
At 6 years old children are still easily distracted and many children are simply develpomentally not ready to sit still in school for 6 hours. Now, the public school system has neither the appropriate structure nor the funds to address children's developmental needs, but it might give you some ease of mind that this is not unusual.
If you really want to help him, eliminate major distractors first: TV and other "Screens" - they have been proven to impair kids' ability to focus. More exercise and a good diet will help him as well.
Before you add any other vitamins to his diet, speak to your pediatrician. Young children can overdose on nutritional supplements!

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E.G.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 28, 2009

Diet, exercise, and good supplementation is very important. Not all supplements are created the equal. The best ones I have found are the ones by Shaklee and yes, Omega 3 with DHA is very good brain food. I would also look at diet. If you are on the SAD (standard American diet) diet this could be part of the problem also. Too much sugar, too many simple carbs, not enough quality protein and not enough pure water or raw fruits and vegetables could also contribute to brain function. Many Shaklee distributors are very educated in diet and many are practical nutrition advisors also so don't be afraid to ask for help. A more expensive route that may help is to seek advise from a nutritionist or Naturapathic Doctor. You can also go to the library and do the research yourself or on the internet. Whenever possible, buy organic it has more nutrients and does not contain growth hormones and antibiotics. Hope this helps.

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S.M.

answers from
Portland
on
November 18, 2009

I give my kids them through Nature's Sunshine. I can get 40% off retail. I can help you get it too.

We love our Omega 3 with DHA. My son eats one in the morning and on night. I think they help him focus too! he is so much easier to get along with when he has them.

My daughter seems to only need one a day.
I chew them up too! I am nursing and hate burping up other ones, so I take a couple a day of the kids ones too! :)

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A.M.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

They will help with immune system, allergies, skin ,and overall health. I am unsure about the concentration factor. I would recommend limiting sugar before and during school for that. Also making sure he has enough water and protein in the mornings. My kids love DHA Junior by Nordic Naturals. It's strawberry flavored. They can chew them and swallow or spit out the soft gel casings after they've sucked out all the liquid.

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W.L.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

Yes! Omegas are important for the health in your body on many levels, including concentration. (It's an essential supplement for the brain.) I highly recommend Nordic Naturals - Children's DHA (Soft gels). They're chewable soft gels and my picky eater kids love them. (It's a strawberry-ish flavor.) Nordic Naturals is also a very well known and respected company that has won awards and has the highest standards to remain virtually contaminant free (of mercury's, etc.). Carlson's is the other brand that is among the best, but for kids, I suggest Nordic Naturals. http://www.nordicnaturals.com/

A secondary idea for you to try with attention span with your son is a 2/1 magnesium/calcium supplement. Both (especially magnesium) are well known deficiencies in children and adults who have difficulties with concentrating. If you go to a health food store, they will help point you in the right direction. There are a few different ones that are chewable and specially made for children to help with attention.

Avoiding food dyes (especially red's & yellows), is also key in helping focus and concentration. There have been studies that have shown a strong link between food dye's and attention deficiencies. One last note to keep in mind are the links that have been found between artificial foods/preservatives (corn syrups, hydrogenated oils, etc.) and attention deficiencies.

A side suggestion that I suggest to EVERYone to take (especially kids) in addition to omegas, is probiotics for digestional health (which is very important for healthy functioning of the whole body). Pharmax HLC is by far the best brand and tested to have active cultures (which many are not, although they claim to be). If you decide to do this, be sure to refrigerate this supplement as it will allow the cultures to stay alive. (Otherwise, it's pointless to take it.)

A lot of people don't realize the link between the foods that we consume and brain activity, but, in fact, they are directly related.

Obviously just being 6 years old is part of having difficulties focusing, but you should have much greater success if you consider the full balance of his body.

I wish you all the best! :o)

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J.R.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

There are gummy bear Omega 3 vitamins at Costco or Whole Foods - super easy thing to add to their diet and inexpensive considering... Also, Ground Flax Seed is a good source and is so good for you in many ways. You can add it to yogurt and the taste is good. I make a morning smoothie for my very young kids (berries, yogurt, ground flax seed, oats, peanut butter, banana, a juice liquid) and my kids love them. Its their "jamba juice" and a huge treat to them. Sometimes I put spinach in there because they are in a "no green veggie" stage.

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N.B.

answers from
Seattle
on
November 24, 2009

Hi J.,
I am a rep for a green manufacturing Company. We have a supplement line as well. I do not distribute products but I do rep for them. We are an environmentally friendly and our price point is competitive to grocery store brands. Yes Omega-3's are very important but so are minerals. It is really important that the minerals are bio-available and delivered to the cell level AND DO NOT CAUSE Free-Radical damage in the small intestines. If you would like to investigate further I would love to help you.
N. B

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C.C.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

Nordic Naturals seem to be the most popular.I use them.

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D.R.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

Nordic Naturals or Carlson Omega-3 fish oils are the best quality. There are other options as well, but be cautious of artificial colors and flavors. The two brands above are all natural. There will be a significant increase in ability to concentrate and with a noted calmness. They also benefit all soft tissues in the body and will aid in healing any possible skin conditions. I have taken fish oils throughout all three pregnancies, as they help with brain development in utero. Also, my children have taken them since they stopped breast feeding. They are very alert, focused and well adjusted. I hope this information helps you.

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M.T.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

There are numerous studies and articles discussing the importance that Omega-3 fatty acids and DHAs play in brain development. I would echo that it is important that you and your family get these nutrients through diet (eating lots of fish rich in Omega 3s) or through supplements.

Also, just to be clear, it is not a medication as one mom is concerned about. It is a natural supplement sourced from fish (e.g. cod liver) or vegan sources (such as flax).

My daughter, like most kids, doesn't eat very much fish and I don't count fish sticks as fish really! ;) So, we have tried a few different supplements including the Gummies that are referred to by other moms. They are high in sugars and low in essential fatty acids, as well as of lower quality when it comes to the actual supplement. I did a fair amount of research and found a very nice product that my daughter takes (actually likes it!) - it is high in top grade Omega 3s and DHAs and comes from sustainable sources. It is called NORDIC NATURALS. I purchase the regular liquid (8 0z) in Strawberry. Adults take 1 teaspoon children 1/2 teaspoon. You don't need to purchase the "Kids" version. It is sold at New Seasons and runs $21.95 a bottle. But, don't let the price deter you - you are only taking a small amount, so it lasts months. And, you can be certain you are getting an excellent supplement.

The website also discusses the products and importance of Omega-3s and DHAs so you can be more informed.

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K.M.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid. Essential because the body requires them, especially for optimum nerve function. Unfortunately, the body does not produce these so they must be supplemented in our diet. I use Arbonne's Resist Essential Fatty Acid Supplement. This is a flaxseed oil supplement and it works great. For more information you can go to my webpage at www.nursekerry.myarbonne.com.

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J.W.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

Say yes to fish oil! We use Dr. Sears Go Fish and my two year old loves them. Nordic Naturals, as many mamas have suggested, are supposed to be lowest in heavy metals, so I would get that brand if you can. That was the brand suggested by my midwife for me to take when I was pregnant and nursing. I just talked with my daughter's pediatrician/naturopath about this last month. She said flax oil was good, but that fish oil was better. As my daughter has suddenly decided she doesn't want to eat dinner and the veggies that go with dinner :( we have started her on Nordic Berries gummy multi-vitamin on the suggestion of her doctor. So I give her the Go Fish and then the gummy with a drop of vitamin D on it. I also give her some orange juice or 100% apple juice with flax oil in it. I also take cod liver oil and flax oil every day!

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L.G.

answers from
Eugene
on
October 29, 2009

Great that you asked this question. Yesterday I met with a friend who is a long practicing psychologist. She claims research in Europe has shown Omega 3's to be an anti-depressant.
If so that is good news. Even children can get depressed and be misdiagnosed with learning disorders.
Find out what a proper dose is for a six year old as most packages tell the dose for those aged 12 and up.

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L.A.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

YES!!! Omega 3 supplementation is really important if your little one doesn't consume much seafood. DHA (an omega-3 oil) is the primary fatty acid needed for proper brain and vision development as well as maximizing your child’s mood, focus and cognitive potential. I would suggest trying either Dr. Sear's 'Go Fish DHA' or Nordic Naturals 'Children's DHA'.

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H.B.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

I give my kids Nordic Naturals DHA Juniors. I am not sure if you would really notice a difference in behavior from that, but I figure it can't hurt. It's good for so many different reasons. We buy them from our doctor, but I think you can get them at Whole Foods and places like that.

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M.F.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

You have received great advice already .... Just want to add that you should try and get samples of different supplements. My 5 year old won't take the regular kids fish oil capsules by Nordic Naturals even with strawberry flavor although my 2 yr old loves them. My son actually takes the gummy omega 3 supplement by Lil' Critters we buy at Costco. He would take the gummy berries one by Nordic though. Just want to save you from buying something that you spend good money on and he won't eat it. You can get samples online from the different companies or from some specialty bit stores.

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A.B.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 29, 2009

All I want to say is I believe in the power of good vitamins! I was feeling pretty depressed a few months ago to the point where I just really needed some help. I figured I'd start with some vitamins and go from there. So I made the trip to a health store spent some good money (made sure I got the most bang for my buck) I got Omega 3 fish oil and a good women's blend Multi Vitamin and a week or two into taking them I my attitude and overall feeling physically and mentally has totally changed. Make sure you buy the good stuff or you really are throwing your money away! Omega 3's are so valuable!

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N.M.

answers from
Eugene
on
October 28, 2009

absolutely Omegas help...the human brain is made up of fat& fat solubles, and if we don't consume enough,( and correct sources) it does effect concentration among other issues...Nordic Naturals makes the purest form of Omega supplements from a natural,, clean source: the deep, cold Atlantic ocean near Norway.
Chiropractic also helps concentration issues tremendously, and Sandy Johnson, D.C. is a gentle practioner who treats the whole body in a gentle, effective way, (no "crack em/ wack em" treatments)
My son had great results utilizing both these tools: Omegas & chiropractic...starting at age 5 through his teen years and even today(he is 30) I highly recommend these to any parent as tools to assist our children toward total health!

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M.D.

answers from
Portland
on
October 29, 2009

Yes it does! Make sure you are getting a good one though or you are throwing your money away. Many of the fish oil versions are tainted with high metals so stay away from those. Get a bottle of flax oil instead. You will know it's good if it's refrigerated. Flax goes rancid quickly so make sure to get a fresh bottle. You can just take it by the spoonful like my kids do followed up with a gummy vitamin (kind of like how they eat their green beans first so they can get to the mashed potatoes at dinner) or you can mix it in with something else like yogurt, oatmeal, mashed veggies, smoothies, etc.

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M.M.

answers from
Seattle
on
October 28, 2009

I have been given my 3 year-old daughter fish oil for more than a year. Not because any behavioral problem, just because we don't eat any enough fish in our diet.
She loves Carlson The Very Finest Fish Oil Lemon. This are Vitamin A and D free because she takes a multivitamin and I didn't want to overload her with more.
Recently, we have some samples of Nordic Naturals Children's DHA Chewable Strawberry flavor. She liked them, too.
If you go to a health store, they will have samples for you to try, and they will help you too. Basically, I think those are the two best brands.